December 9, 2024 | Product Liability
Using a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine is supposed to help you sleep more peacefully. These devices are designed to deliver a steady flow of air through the mouth and nose to prevent people with sleep apnea from stopping breathing suddenly.
Untreated sleep apnea can increase a person’s risk for high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, and other serious conditions. However, relying on a faulty machine could also put your life in danger.
The FDA Recall of Philips CPAP Machines
In April 2024, a consent decree was issued against Philips Respironics by a federal district court. This was done after Philips had already recalled some of their ventilators, BiPAP, and CPAP machines because the devices had the potential to cause health risks. The recall involved 15 million devices worldwide.
The recall was based on concerns about a polyester-based polyurethane foam used in the CPAPs and other devices. The foam is used to reduce sound and vibration transfer, but it can break down if exposed to hot and humid conditions. If such a breakdown happens, the user could inadvertently inhale or swallow pieces of the foam or the chemicals used to make it.
Swallowing plastic foam or breathing in toxic chemicals could cause:
- Headache
- Irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory tract
- Coughing
- Asthma
- Chest pressure
- Organ problems
- Systemic inflammation
- Sinus infection
The breakdown and release of certain chemicals in the foam could also increase the risk of certain types of cancer that could lead to death.
Has Your CPAP Machine Been Recalled?
Most of the recalled products are in Philips’ “DreamStation” product line, which was manufactured between 2009 and 2021. However, other devices have also been recalled due to the unstable polyurethane foam.
The complete list of the recalled devices includes the following models:
- DreamStation
- BiPAP (A30/A40 Series)
- BiPAP V30, E30
- REMstar SE Auto
- SystemOne (Q-Series)
- Trilogy 100, Trilogy 200, and Trilogy Evo
- Dorma 400 and 500
- C-Series ASV
To find out whether your CPAP machine is on the recall list, locate the serial number on the bottom of the machine. Once you’ve confirmed the device’s serial number, visit the Philips Respironics website to register your machine and see if it’s on the list.
Completing the registration form enables Philips to contact consumers about the recall. Make sure the information you provide is accurate and up to date so that you can be reached reliably.
What Happens Next?
Much like filing a claim after an auto accident, recall customers must have patience. It can take up to 12 months to have a recalled CPAP machine replaced or repaired. If you don’t want to continue using your Philips device while waiting, consult your physician to discuss alternative treatments. Sleep apnea is a serious condition that shouldn’t be ignored.
Those who have sustained illnesses or injuries related to recalled CPAP machines may be eligible to file a lawsuit based on product liability. If successful, you could recover compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and other losses.
Additionally, if you believe a faulty Philips CPAP machine contributed to a loved one’s wrongful death, you may have legal options available to you.
Check Your CPAP Machine For Safe Use
CPAP machines are an important type of medical equipment that protects users’ health and saves lives. Even so, using a faulty machine can have the opposite effect.
If your CPAP device is on the recall list, discontinue use and talk to your doctor right away. They can recommend alternative treatments, such as lifestyle changes and medications, to maintain your health while you’re waiting for a repair or replacement.
Contact our Personal Injury Law Firm at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Chicago, IL, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Our dedicated team is here to provide the expert guidance you need to secure the compensation you deserve. Contact our experienced attorneys at Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers for a free consultation.
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Powell and Pisman Injury Lawyers
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